Trump’s SEC Changes Draw Scrutiny from Watchdog Agencies

The new leadership at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), appointed by President Trump, is facing increasing scrutiny from government watchdog agencies. Concerns arise as these changes impact the agency’s investigative abilities and staff resources, with several watchdog organizations planning to investigate SEC operations under the new administration. Among those concerned are the Government Accountability Office (GAO) and Accountable.US. GAO will be investigating SEC leadership’s recent changes, including planned reductions in staffing and decreased independent investigation capabilities. SEC lawyers have also reported needing approval from their superiors before initiating investigations. These regulatory shifts coincide with significant staff departures at the SEC, where generous severance packages are being offered to those resigning voluntarily. President Trump’s crypto ventures are fueling the controversy. Lawmakers, including Representative Maxine Waters, have accused him of using his influence to enrich himself through his involvement in the cryptocurrency world, potentially at the expense of ordinary investors. Waters alleges that Trump has amassed billions from his various crypto ventures and used these profits for personal gain. This issue is compounded by concerns over potential conflicts of interest raised by Senator Elizabeth Warren regarding Trump’s company World Liberty Financial (WLFI). This firm presents opportunities for foreign-owned cryptocurrency firms to potentially use their influence within US politics. These concerns are heightened by the recent appointment of Justin Sun, founder of Tron, as an advisor at WLFI after a $30 million investment.